The Esplanade turns 10 with a weekend of festivities

By Corrie Tan

The Esplanade kicked off its 10th anniversary bash a few hours ago with a tribute to the arts pioneers who shaped Singapore's arts landscape.

More than 100 guests milled around the Jendela gallery, which was lined with pictures and quotes from 170 arts movers and shakers, including composer Phoon Yew Tien and the late theatre pioneer Kuo Pao Kun.

This exhibition is part of the ongoing Tribute project (www.tribute.sg), which pays homage to those who have made significant contributions to Singapore's arts and culture scene.

Mr Benson Puah, 55, the Esplanade's chief executive officer, told The Straits Times: "Esplanade would not be where we are, if not for the fact that we had pioneers like this whom, unfortunately, we don't always fully celebrate and remember."